Donor Impact

Twenty-nine years ago, I sat in a training room to become a CASA volunteer who would go on to serve dozens of children as their direct advocate. I have had the privilege of remaining in touch with some of the kids I’ve worked with directly. It is my relationship with Prudence that I hold very dear and it remains one of my most cherished.

I met Prudence when she was just seven years old. In her words, “I grew up in a world that was hard to survive, born into a young life filled with addiction, abuse, and alcoholism.” As she journeyed through the system and navigated parts of her childhood, I was able to be there and support her while she found stability. I visited Prudence as she changed foster homes, changed schools, and worked through the trauma that she experienced in her early life.

Prudence was given a chance to start again. She took every part of that chance to grow and rise above the odds, allowing her to leave her own mark. Prudence, now in her thirties and a mother of four, is a successful business owner and entrepreneur in Wexford (check out Brima Beauty Bar!).

Beyond her professional success, she has come to the aid of her own family members and siblings, taking on caregiving responsibilities to prevent nieces and nephews from going into foster care. She has acted as a guiding force for her brothers as they seek better futures. She is a living testament to the resilience and compassion of child survivors.

As her CASA, I was able to play a small part in the legacy that Prudence is leaving in our world. Your gifts and support allowed me to do that.